From San Cristobal: Chiflon and Lakes of Montebello Tour

From San Cristobal: Chiflon and Lakes of Montebello Tour

Imagine a day spent exploring the most breathtaking waterfalls in Chiapas and wandering beside shimmering lakes in one of Mexico’s most beautiful parks. For just $46 per person, you’ll spend around 10 hours discovering cascading waters like Velo de Novia — Chiapas’ tallest and most awe-inspiring fall — and swimming or relaxing by the vibrant Montebello Lagoons. Led by guides who seem genuinely passionate about the area’s natural wonders, this tour offers a satisfying mix of adventure, scenery, and genuine local charm.

What we especially appreciate are the close-up views of waterfalls that offer excellent photo opportunities, and the chance to stand at Laguna Enchanted’s colorful waters, which feel like floating through a dream. The well-organized itinerary ensures plenty of time at each spot without feeling rushed.

However, one aspect to consider is the long drive involved—around 4 hours in total—so this tour might not be suitable if you’re sensitive to lengthy bus rides. Also, the lakes portion can feel somewhat hit-or-miss, with some reviews noting that not all lagoons meet expectations or are equally spectacular.

This experience is best suited for nature lovers and those eager to see Chiapas’ top natural sights without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips. We recommend it if you value stunning scenery and guided insights but are prepared for a day that involves some travel and a fair amount of walking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Impressive waterfalls: See the tallest and most powerful cascade in Chiapas, Velo de Novia.
• Beautiful lakes: Visit several lagoons, including the famous Laguna Enchanted with its vibrant waters.
• Well-paced itinerary: Around 10 hours, with enough time at each site to enjoy without feeling rushed.
• Cost-effective: At $46, the price includes ground transportation, entrance fees, and basic insurance.
• Long travel time: The drive between sites is about 4 hours, so be prepared for a full day.
• Mixed reviews on lakes: While some lagoons are stunning, others may not impress as much or are somewhat deserted.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting in San Cristobal and Transportation

We begin the day in San Cristobal de las Casas, a charming town filled with colorful markets and colonial architecture. The tour company arranges pickup, which is convenient but can involve some waiting, especially if the driver is picking up other travelers around town. The van ride itself is about 2.5 hours to the first major stop, Chiflon waterfalls. The roads wind through lush, mountainous scenery, giving an early taste of the area’s natural richness.

Cascadas el Chiflon: Nature’s Water Curtain

The highlight here is the Velo de Novia waterfall, a 70-meter-high cascade that looks like a bridal veil of water—hence the name. The tour lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to take photos, enjoy the viewpoints, and soak in the sounds of rushing water. We particularly like the accessibility of the viewpoint, which allows for close-up shots and appreciation of the power of nature.

Other waterfalls like Cascada el Suspiro and Ala de Ángel are included in the visit, though the main attraction remains the Velo de Novia. The guide offers some insights into the area’s geology and flora, adding an educational element to the natural spectacle.

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Transition to Lakes of Montebello

After a quick lunch stop (the tour company provides a set meal, but reviews suggest food options can be limited or not very appealing, so consider bringing snacks), we head on a 1.5-hour drive to the Montebello Lagoons. The drive offers glimpses of rural Chiapas, with small villages and green hills, setting the scene for the next part of the day.

Exploring the Lagoons: Nature’s Palette

The Montebello Lagoons are famed for their vivid colors, and the tour visits several, including Lake Tziscao, Laguna Pojoj, Laguna Enchanted, and Lake Montebello itself. Each lagoon has its own charm: some are perfect for photos, others for a quick paddle or a peaceful walk.

One of the most praised aspects is the “dream lagoon”, known for its changing hues—an Instagram favorite. The tour allows about two hours here, which generally provides enough time for sightseeing, shopping for souvenirs at nearby stalls, and perhaps some quick snacks or souvenirs.

That said, some reviews mention that the lakes can feel underwhelming: one traveler noted that they visited a lagoon that was deserted and lacked charm, and expressed disappointment that not all lagoons are equally spectacular. Others found the effort worthwhile, citing the beautiful colors and tranquil scenery, but overall, expectations should be tempered.

Return Journey and Reflection

After the lakes, the return trip takes around 4 hours. We arrive back in San Cristobal tired but with plenty of memories. The long drive is a consideration—it’s a full day, and some travelers might find the transit a bit tedious, especially if they’re prone to travel fatigue.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price includes entrance fees, ground transportation, and basic travel insurance, which simplifies the planning. However, food and beverages are not included—so packing snacks or a light lunch is wise, especially if you don’t want to rely solely on the limited options available at the stops. Lodging is also not covered, so if you’re planning to stay longer in San Cristobal, budget accordingly.

The Guide and Overall Value

The tour is guided in Spanish, so it’s best for Spanish speakers or those comfortable with basic language skills. The guides we’ve heard about seem knowledgeable and enthusiastic, often making the experience more engaging.

At $46, the tour provides good value considering the transportation, entrance fees, and access to some of Chiapas’ best natural sights. Still, it’s essential to keep expectations realistic—particularly about the lakes, which some reviews suggest can be less impressive than hoped or somewhat deserted.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see Chiapas’ top waterfalls and lakes in one day. It suits those happy to spend a significant part of the day in transit but who want a guided experience that takes care of logistics. Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning waterfalls and vivid lagoons, especially if they’re visiting Chiapas for its natural beauty rather than cultural or archaeological sites. However, if you prefer more relaxed, less time in the car, or are particularly interested in visiting multiple lagoons, you might want to consider other options or extend your stay.

Final Thoughts

This From San Cristobal tour offers a solid, value-packed way to witness some of Chiapas’ most iconic natural sights. The waterfalls, especially the Velo de Novia, are genuinely spectacular, and the lagoons provide peaceful, colorful scenery. Our favorite part is seeing the waterfalls up close—there’s nothing quite like the roar of water and the sight of a perfect cascade.

While the lakes can vary in appeal and the long drive might be tiring, the overall experience feels authentic and well-organized. It’s perfect for nature enthusiasts and beginners who want to see a lot in a single day without the hassle of planning. Just remember to pack snacks, bring your camera, and keep your expectations flexible—because the natural wonders of Chiapas can surprise you in the best ways.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes ground transportation in a comfortable van, making it easy to cover the long distances between sites.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts about 10 hours, from pickup in San Cristobal to return, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the price covers all entrance fees for the waterfalls and lakes.

What should I bring?
Bring snacks or a light meal, water, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera.

Can I swim in the lakes?
The tour includes time to enjoy the lakes, and some travelers mention swimming, but it’s best to check locally on the day since not all lagoons are suitable or safe for swimming.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments, as some sites involve walking and uneven paths.

Is the guide bilingual?
The tour is guided in Spanish, so some proficiency or a translator might be helpful for non-Spanish speakers.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Chiapas’ most notable natural attractions. While it’s not without its flaws—primarily the long travel time and variable lake quality—it remains a strong choice for those wanting an affordable, guided glimpse into the state’s stunning landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: